A game for the 10 best players who didn’t make the All-Star Game

Many believe Stephen Curry should be playing at the Toyota Center on Feb. 17. (Jane Tyska/Oakland Tribune)

For every player picked, another came close and fell short. There is no need, however, to feel snubbed or for Charles Barkley’s large noggin to explode. Those who could not get into the All-Star Game at Toyota Center can consider themselves invited to the court across the street. The NBA can have its fancy schmancy game. These guys can hoop the way hooping was intended: in the park.

Here are the Root Memorial Square Park All-Stars

EASTERN CONFERENCE

Carlos Boozer, Forward: For all the grief he has taken in Chicago, Boozer is averaging 16.1 points and 9.9 rebounds in a terrific season, especially lately.

Josh Smith, Forward: The Hawks have cooled off, making this less a snub than a near miss, but Smith is as usual filling the stat sheet as a scorer (16.7), rebounder (8.3) and shot blocker (2.3).

Brook Lopez, Center: Did coaches snub him in an Avery Johnson protest? Funny that in the year with no center designation on ballot, a third center reserve might be deserving.

Brandon Jennings, Guard: The Bucks have faced injuries (as usual) and a coaching change, but Jennings has them in position to make the playoffs.

Paul Pierce, Guard: Though actually a forward, Pierce can play where he wishes at Root Park, especially while having a typical Pierce season in a down year for the Celtics.

WESTERN CONFERENCE

Jamal Crawford, Guard: The Sixth Man of the Year favorite would light up an All-Star Game and is having the season (averaging 16.6 points off the bench) for another Clipper to deserve a spot across the street.

Stephen Curry, Guard: The leader in the snub protests, he’s been sensational for the Warriors, averaging 20.9 points and at least earning a place in the 3-point contest.

Marc Gasol, Center: The Grizzlies did get Zach Randolph on the team, but coaches rave about Gasol’s defense, and he’s been solid offensively as MVG (Most Valuable Gasol).

Al Jefferson, Forward: Big Al is more of a center these days but has had enough time as a power forward. Averaging 17.1 points and 9.8 rebounds for the quietly surging Jazz.

Serge Ibaka, Forward: Also having to play out of position in the Root game, Ibaka has added enough shooting range while remaining a force defensively.